R&D - Senior Technician; Upstream Materials

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The R&D Senior Technician will be responsible for assisting in the development of new cathode active materials and evaluating additives, helping to define the synthesis processes needed to make them, and characterizing electrochemical performance. The role will be focused on building off the foundation provided by Duracell’s patented Power Boost cathode technology. The Senior Technician will work with more Senior Technologists to design and execute lab experiments, analyze experimental data, and use it to help make recommendations on material improvements.

The role will require the safe operation of lab and pilot-scale chemical reactors and other synthesis equipment, as well as employing a range of material characterization techniques including cell prototyping. The work will require handling of hazardous materials and occasionally the use of respirators. Experiments will be documented and communicated to the technical team, and the lab will be kept in safe and clean condition.

The role may require infrequent travel, up to 10% of the time, domestically.

This role will be fully onsite in Atlanta, GA. Relocation assistance will be offered if applicable.

• With supervision/coaching from more Senior Technical staff in the Upstream Materials Discovery group, design, conduct and analyze chemical synthesis and characterization experiments focused on developing new cathode materials and evaluating their performance.
• Communicate effectively within the team to recommendation improvements to lab procedures, synthesis approaches, and to maintain an adequate supply of chemicals and consumables.
• Organize and properly label and submit samples for analytical chemistry tests, and compile and summarize results in a logical format.
• Record experimental data in laboratory notebooks. Communicate results to senior technical staff and supervisors. Present results to technical teams.
• Install, qualify operation, and author or update procedures for new and relocated lab equipment in Duracell’s brand-new R&D site in Atlanta, GA.
• Always work respectfully in collaboration with a lab buddy.
• Handle chemicals and waste in accordance with Duracell’s procedures.
• Keep a clean, safe workspace according to regulatory requirements and best practice.
• Support cell prototyping by preparing materials, assisting builds, or assembling prototype cells in various formats as needed.

• Degree in a scientific discipline. Chemistry or materials science preferred, but also including forensic science, biology, physics, and other research or lab-based degrees.
• Applicant must be comfortable with the handling of hazardous materials and use of respiratory protection. Experience with both is a plus.
• Experience working in a lab environment and knowledge of safe lab practices.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow procedures to maintain a safe working environment is required.
• A mechanical aptitude, including experience maintaining, cleaning and rebuilding equipment, and proficiency with hand tools is a plus.

Duracell is the world’s leading manufacturer and marketer of high-performance alkaline batteries, complemented by a portfolio of high quality, market leading specialty, rechargeable and professional batteries. Duracell’s products power numerous critical professional devices across the globe such as heart rate monitors, defibrillators, telemetry devices, smoke detectors, fire alarms, automated valves and security systems. As the leader in the professional power category, Duracell has a rich history of innovation, continuously introducing batteries that are smaller, thinner, with more energy and longer lasting than competitive brands.

Since March 2016, Duracell has found its permanent home within Berkshire Hathaway (ranked #4 World's Most Admired Companies by Fortune Magazine and #3 in the Fortune 500), and will continue to focus on sustainable growth, industry-leading innovation while creating long-term value for our customers and consumers. At Duracell, integrity, end-to-end accountability across all levels, fast decision-making and a “can do” attitude is highly valued.